Where to Go in North Carolina: Sylvan Heights Wildlife Bird Sanctuary in Scotland Neck

Updated on November 20, 2012

A 5 Star Rating for this gem.

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5 stars for Sylvan Heights Waterfowl Park

Why I recommend the Sylvan Heights Waterfowl Park

Delightful is the one word I would use to describe the Sylvan Heights Waterfowl Park in Scotland Neck, North Carolina. Although my family and I have only been there twice it has been a wonderful experience both times. I strongly recommend any visitor who happens to be in the eastern area of the state to stop at this gem. I guarantee that you will not regret spending an hour or two there. On all accounts I rate this five stars and only wish I could give it a higher rating.

My father introduced me to this wildlife bird sanctuary in 2007, one year before he died. My friend and I joined him, and my nephew J, for a very educational and enjoyable experience. Dad had discovered it in the way he usually discovered interesting places to visit-through reading about it in the newspaper. He decided it was a ‘must see’, and boy, was he right.

This visit was a bit of bittersweet remembrance of our former trip with dad. This time we went in the fall, the same group minus dad, although he most certainly was with us in spirit. Our admission was a good deal we had gotten from a Groupon coupon-a two for one rate. Comparatively, it is about the cost of a movie ticket and so much more pleasurable.

About the staff

The staff at the waterfowl park is friendly, knowledgeable, and looking for opportunities to give visitors educational moments. For instance, we no sooner bought our tickets and a $2.00 bag of bird feed, than the ticket agent directed us to an event she suggested we wouldn’t want to miss. Two staff were meeting in the parking lot with a red-tailed hawk and guiding it on a tethered flight. We returned to the parking lot, me with my video camera ready, and were not disappointed. After the bird was ‘exercised’, the young man came up to the small group on the porch and asked if we wanted to see the bird up close. It was a picture perfect moment. Note the first video at the beginning of this article-the Red-Tailed Hawk.

Red-Tailed Hawk

A beautiful profile of a regal bird. | Source

Founder of Sylvan Heights Waterfowl Park:

Mike Lubbock, founder of Sylvan Heights, is a native of England. When he arrived in North Carolina it was his goal to continue the ornithology work he had been involved with in England and around the world. The center was established in 1985 but only became a public entity in 2006. In the meantime, Lubbock is world renowned for his work and has received 17 awards for World First Breeding; 15 awards for First Breedings in North America; the Jean Delacour Avicultural Award and has been inducted into International Wildlife Waterfowl Association Hall of Fame.

For the Bird watcher:

Important Questions about the Park:

Tues-Sun 9 a.m.- 5:00 in the spring-fall; closes at 4:00 in winter months.

Cost of admission:

Adults-13 and older = $9

Seniors = $7

Age 3-12 = $5

Under 3 = Free

Bird Eggs

Click thumbnail to view full-size

Ostrich egg | Source

Emu egg | Source

Sarus Crane | Source

Source

Kookaburro | Source

Eurasian Eagle Owl | Source

Darwin's Rhea | Source

Taking the Tour of the Bird Sanctuary

The Sylvan Heights Waterfowl Park actually has the largest collection of waterfowl birds in the whole world. Their mission is to educate people on the importance of conservation of wetlands, wildlife and, of course, birds. There are over 2000 varieties of birds from all over the world. Five continents are represented at Sylvan Heights: North and South America, Eurasia, Africa and Australia.

Within the beautiful log cabin building is a conference room for educational meetings; a gift shop; bathrooms and a display of various eggs: ostrich, emu, and owl were a few. The back door leads into the park and the first thing that greets you is a wonderful pond. Large pictured display boards identify each resident that paddles by and a perpetual fountain keeps the water fresh and moving.

No matter which direction you start in it will eventually lead you into a circle so it is impossible to miss anything if you stay on the path. There were three offshoots to the main track, which we followed when we got there. One was a Beaver Pond Blind, another was the Bird Nest Tree House, and the third was the Kiptopeke Walkway; all overlook wetlands. I remember the park in 2007 and it was only half the size it is now. Back then they were only talking of plans for the tree house, but now they are spread over 18 acres of woodland, ponds and gardens.

While one can make arrangements for a tour guide this is usually a self-tour. It can easily be completed in an hour and half, if one wants to walk quickly through the park, or perhaps just go directly to a particular exhibit without stopping to visit the other areas, however, you would not have time to read the exhibit boards or really get the full impact of the park. We took a leisurely afternoon, the guys patiently waiting for me as I jotted notes and took photos, and finished the tour in three hours. The path is wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs and, if one is so inclined, golf carts are also available for use.

Along the paths there are benches to pause at, and two picnic areas. While snacks and bottled beverages can be purchased in the gift shop, food from home is allowed and there is even a playground area for the kids to get rid of a bit of energy.

Sarus Cranes

One of the highlights of the walk was getting to meet Scooby-Doo. Scooby-Doo is a baby Sarus Crane who was out on one of his walks with staff. As my nephew and I stopped to film the big baby bird, the staff member assured us that he’d be close enough to almost touch, and he was right. I not only was able to find out more information, but also had a great time filming this long legged bird. J and I discovered that there were three Sarus Cranes born at the park, and they will reach a height of six feet tall. Their wing- span will be over nine feet wide, and in fact, they are the tallest flying bird in the world.

Scooby Doo, the Baby Sarus Crane

Flamingos

Flamingos

Did you know that baby flamingos have gray feathers when they are first born? The feathers eventually change to their adult color. There are only six species of flamingos recorded in the world and at least two of these, the Chilean Flamingo and the Lesser Flamingo, are on exhibit at the waterfowl park. I remember when we saw them in 2007 and dad, who always had a good sense of humor, told everyone to strike their best flamingo pose while I snapped a photo. This time I was able to catch them on film.

Exotic Birds

Peafowl and Pheasants

One of the areas I enjoyed the most was that of the peafowl and pheasant exhibits. Although the sign directed me to the names I was still a bit confused on some of the peacocks there. With a bit more research I found that the ‘white’ peacock actually is a Silver Pied Peacock. I would have loved to see any of the peacocks’ feathers open, but they weren’t cooperating that day. In the meantime, it was a joy to see the beautiful colors in the peafowl, the golden feathers of the Golden Pheasant, also known as the Chinese Pheasant, and the Lady Amherst Pheasant, who was named for the wife of the Governor General of Bengal, back in the 1800’s.

Ducks and Geese

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Buick Goose | Source

Black Necked Swan | Source

Ducks | Source

Hawaiian Goose | Source

Other Birds

Owls, swans, parrots, Macaws, Kookaburras, Toco Toucans, turkeys, and a Roadrunner are some of the other birds we saw, to name just a few. We saw so many beautiful birds, some seemingly common, like the ducks, but each one special because they represented all parts of the world; some more entertaining for us, like the Emu from Australia, who ‘sat down’ in front of us for several minutes. It was hilarious and we had never seen a bird do that before, or the Buick Goose, who kept honking like a horn; some were more exotic like the Toco Toucan, or the Blue Crowned Pigeon, who had an irritable temperament, but they were all amazing.

Wetlands and Caged Birds

After we met Scooby-Doo, the baby Sarus Crane, we continued on our walk and came to a building that housed an exhibit of poisonous frogs and a honeybee comb. We followed the path all the way to the end and it led to the Beaver Pond Blind. Although we didn't see any wildlife through the blind we spotted a lizard on the way out and took a few photos of it. We actually saw many of them as we continued to follow the path through the woods that led to the treehouse.

I have a passion for trees and a fascination for tree houses. Although this tree house was very basic it was fun to have an opportunity to overlook the wetlands from the height of where we stood. The other great thing about it is that it is wheelchair accessible. After several minutes of viewing the area and taking photos we were ready to move on.

We merged back to the main path and followed the exhibits past the geese, the flamingos, and to a large owl cage. It was very difficult to see inside the cage because it was so big and the two birds were on the highest peak. In fact, because of the distance and lack of light going into the cage I knew it was a futile project. If I wanted to get a good photo I had to make a decision.

As I stepped off of the path and towards the bars of the cage I heard my nephew let out a loud gasp. I reassured him that everything was okay and I just needed to get close enough to the cage, but I wasn't in any danger. I snapped a couple of pictures and took some video shots before moving onto the Emu. I felt sorry for the owls; it didn't seem right to have such wild creatures caged up and away from their natural habitat, but I realize it is the same for any of the exotic birds. The waterfowl were the only ones that seemed to be at home in the park.

Beautiful Birds

Click thumbnail to view full-size

Great Egret | Source

Flock of Flamingos | Source

Blue and Gold Macaw-S. America | Source

Toco Toucan-S.America | Source

Owls | Source

Beautiful comb of the Blue Crowned Pigeon | Source

Blue Crowned Pigeon-Euroasia | Source

Emu-Australia | Source

The Emu entertaining us by sitting back and staring | Source

Silver Pied Peacock-Euroasia | Source

Peacock-Euroasia | Source

Peacock-Euroasia | Source

Sun Conure-S. America | Source

Kookaburro-Australia | Source

Turkeys-N.America | Source

A visit to five continents

Although it seems cruel to cage birds up as they are at the park, the founder, Michael Lubbock, is a conscientious conservationist who's mission is to educate others about the importance of caring for species that are endangered. All of the cages are kept clean; the birds are provided with the proper diet; and special programs are available for teachers and students on school field trips.

Lubbock also works with zoo managers and wild life specialists to update them on new techniques on providing the proper environment for the birds. He takes interns from surrounding areas and provides the learning experiences through the husbandry and hatchery projects that have been established.

The design of the park is laid out to enhance the learning experience. Each area represents one continent and the birds that are native to that region are housed in the same vicinity. In this way the visitor sees first hand the types of birds that would commonly be observed and can associate the species with the region.

As we finished our visit we felt that we had spent ample time visiting all of the exhibits, feeding the birds, and enjoying their antics while listening to their calls. It is definitely not a quiet walk through the park, but truly an amazing journey.

Comments 53 comments

This was very well written, very informative, and made me long to visit here. I clicked on the Sarrus Crane as I wanted to see Scooby Doo in action but it said "this video is private."

We are thankful that Mr. Lubbock came to America and founded this sanctuary. Well done.

Denise Handlon 4 years ago from North Carolina Author

Thank you for that alert, pstraubie. I will switch the setting. Thanks for your comments about the hub, I hope you are able to visit someday. :)

glassvisage 4 years ago from Northern California

Wow! I've never been to a bird sanctuary with so many different types of birds. It looks so beautiful and peaceful. Nice video too. I hadn't heard of this place, but I'm glad you shared this! Good luck in the contest!

Denise Handlon 4 years ago from North Carolina Author

Hi glassvisage-thanks for your comments and good luck to you as well. It is a magical place. I hope you have a visit someday. BTW I lived in the East Bay area for awhile. Northern California is awesome; I miss it.

Debby Bruck 4 years ago

Hi Denise my NC friend. This was too cool. I was entranced watching the first video of the red tailed hawk. Wanted to reach out and pet him. Thanks for taking us on a tour. Happy Thanksgiving. (HUGS) Debby

Denise Handlon 4 years ago from North Carolina Author

Hi Debby-it was VERY cool actually being there. That part lasted about 5 minutes so I had to edit some. He/she must have gone back and forth at least 3 if not 4 times. :) I just wish the folks behind me had been less chatty! ! I hope you visit the place if you ever decide to take a little road trip. It is such a peaceful and delightful place to be. Thanks for stopping in. Happy Thanksgiving to you, as well. :)

BTW--did you have a problem viewing the Sarus Crane video? I've been trying to reboot it from private to public and don't know if it kicked in yet.

lanablackmoor 4 years ago from New England

What a beautiful hawk! It looks like the day was well worth the ticket price. I just love Red Tailed Hawks, they always look so serious and majestic! :) Thanks for sharing your experience! I wish I lived closer to a sanctuary. Voted up U/I/B!

Lipnancy 4 years ago from Hamburg, New York

I am so surprised that the birds let you get so close. Very Cool.

btrbell 4 years ago from Mesa, AZ

Great, great job! Even though it makes me want to be there, this was so comprehensive, I felt like I was sharing it with you! Very cool! Thank you!

Jeremiah Handlon 4 years ago

The pictures were very cool. I will have to go sometime.

randomcreative 4 years ago from Milwaukee, Wisconsin

What a comprehensive overview! This looks like such a neat experience.

eHealer 4 years ago from Las Vegas

What a lot of work you put into this! I love birds and the photos are stellar. Will share and vote up!

Denise Handlon 4 years ago from North Carolina Author

Please be sure to watch the Baby Crane video. This was set at 'private' initially, but the problem has been corrected. I appreciate all who have commented and would urge you to take just another 2 minutes to watch this incredible bird. Thanks.

Hi Lana-If you ever take a trip south be sure to keep this place in mind. Thanks for commenting.

Hi Nancy-it was a great experience! I actually touched one of the baby cranes.

Randi-thanks! Be sure to take a trip to NC and visit the place yourself. It's well worth it.

Thanks for commenting Jeremiah-LOL I'm glad you like the photos.

Hi Rose-thanks for your feedback. :)

Hi eHealer-I love birds, too. :) It took me several days to put it together. Glad you enjoyed and thanks for the vote.

Eiddwen 4 years ago from Wales

Wow Denise a wonderful hub and on a subject so very close to my heart. I vote up and share.

Eddy

Denise Handlon 4 years ago from North Carolina Author

Hi Eddy-thank you so much. It was a fun experience for sure. :) Thanks for the share.

AliciaC 4 years ago from British Columbia, Canada

This is a very enjoyable hub, Denise! Thank you for sharing all the photos and videos. The sanctuary looks like a wonderful place to visit. I'd like to go there myself, but I may never be able to. It's great to have your hub to look at instead.

Denise Handlon 4 years ago from North Carolina Author

Hi Alicia-I'm so glad you enjoyed the photos and videos in this hub. Thanks for your feedback.

cardelean 4 years ago from Michigan

What a great guide. The videos definitely made this already information packed hub even more enjoyable. Thanks for the virtual trip!

Denise Handlon 4 years ago from North Carolina Author

Hi Cara-so glad you were able to read and watch the hub. Did you show the kids? What did you think of Scooby Doo? Thanks for your feedback.

Happyboomernurse 4 years ago from South Carolina

Wow! This hub and all the videos and photos were awesome!!!! This is definitely my kind of place and is now a must see when I go to North Carolina. I felt like I was right there with you and because you took the time to identify each bird I learned a lot of things I didn't know before.

I also thought that the workers in the videos were great because their enthusiasm was palpable.

Voted up across the board except for funny and shared with followers and on Pinterest.

Good luck in the contest. I think this is a wonderful entry with an excellent chance of winning. The home videos made it particularly appealing and special.

Hub Hugs,

Gail

teaches12345 4 years ago

We had a bird similar to the hawk you posted land on our back screened area; maybe this was what it was? Anyways, fascinating read and I would enjoy a trip to this sanctuary.

Debby Bruck 4 years ago

Denise - the Sarus Crane video is now updated and plays. It was frozen as private when I first read this Hub. Thanks! Deb

Denise Handlon 4 years ago from North Carolina Author

Hi Gail-I'm glad this place caught your eye. Please let me know when you plan this trip and I will meet up with you. We are only about 20 minutes away. :) Thanks for your feedback.

Hi Dianna-it may have been a red-tailed hawk. What an awesome experience. Thanks for sharing that.

Hi Debby-thank you so much for swinging back around for a check on that crane video--isn't he a cutie? My daughter helped out a lot with the setting and troubleshooting, (Cardelean). Thanks for your feedback. :)

Happyboomernurse 4 years ago from South Carolina

Hi Denise,

Returned to congratulate you on your win for this awesome hub! I knew it was a great one.

How cool that it's only 20 minutes from your home. Will definitely let you know if I get a chance to go there.

Hub Hugs & Love,

Gail

Denise Handlon 4 years ago from North Carolina Author

Gail-thank you so much for the well wishes. I have to tell you that little Grace and Alex called me tonight excitedly yelling, "you won!" It was fun.

Yes, be sure to let me know when you decide. Hub Hugs & Love

RTalloni 4 years ago from the short journey

I studied your map carefully in order to find out how far a drive it is for us from here to there! Thanks for a look at this beautiful sanctuary in this super review--and congrats on your win! :)

Denise Handlon 4 years ago from North Carolina Author

Thank you so much, RTalloni. I appreciate your well wishes. Well, if you need any map clarification please let me know. I hope you get a chance to visit, it is well worth the journey if you are anywhere near the area. If not-it's still worth the trip because there are a lot of nice places to visit in NC and the surrounding states. :)

ktrapp 4 years ago from Illinois

Wow Denise - This sanctuary looks amazing! The red-tailed hawk is an incredible bird. I love everything about the bird in the photo--the look in his eyes, the way his feathers go back over his head and his white-feathered chest. I can certainly see how this is a better value than a movie ticket!

Denise Handlon 4 years ago from North Carolina Author

It is amazing, Kristen. I was very thrilled to be so close to the bird-I could almost touch him. And, I was actually able to touch the second baby crane we saw walking at the end of our tour. It was such an enjoyable day. Thanks for your comments.

ktrapp 4 years ago from Illinois

Just stopping back by to say congratulations on your win. What a lovely bird sanctuary and how nice to win writing a review on a place that holds nice memories for you.

Happyboomernurse 4 years ago from South Carolina

Way to go, Denise!

I'm so thrilled that this won best place review!!!

It's obvious you put a lot of effort into creating the videos and writing and illustrating the hub with your own pictures and it's great to see you get recognition for your work!

Hub Hugs,

Gail

BTW: I can hear the grandkids cheering for you all the way in DE!!!!

AliciaC 4 years ago from British Columbia, Canada

I had to return to say congratulations on your win for this lovely hub, Denise!

Denise Handlon 4 years ago from North Carolina Author

Hi Kristen-thank you. Yes, it does hold very special memories. :)

Ha ha, Gail. I was actually surprised I did not get that 'phone call' from them tonight and thought, "I must not have won." :) But, I remembered that they had a very busy night shopping and doing an advent activity with mom, so my guess is that I will get that call tomorrow. :) Thanks so much for the well wishes. The funny thing is that I did all of the taping and photography and note taking during our visit there way before any hints of the contest...I just never had the opportunity to put it together. It turned out to be a blessing because I was able to use that and the Poe hub for the contest. :) You did very well yourself, btw. Your 'travel' hubs are awesome.

Hi Alicia-thanks. I'm partial to this hub, not only because it is such a special place that holds fond memories of my father, but those little Sarus Cranes are so darned cute. I'm so glad I caught one on tape. :) You did an outstanding job on your hub-well deserved for the grand prize. :)

Stephanie Henkel 4 years ago from USA

For some reason I don't always see the announcement of your new postings - sorry I missed this earlier! Terrific hub, Denise! Your videos and photographs are outstanding additions to a very interesting and informative hub. You certainly deserved the award for Best Place Review! Congratulations. Voted up all over the place and shared.

P.S. I think this place is a do-able day trip for us. I'm convinced we have to visit. :)

Denise Handlon 4 years ago from North Carolina Author

Hi Stephanie, I'm sure it would be a short couple hour drive for you. Check it out with google. Bring your granddaughter along and your camera! You'll love it. Thanks so much for your lovely comments. :)

molometer 3 years ago

Wow what a comprehensive hub on this wildlife bird sanctuary.

I enjoy watching these birds and their handlers. Always good for some unexpected results.

I know where to go in North Carolina next time I am stateside.

Denise Handlon 3 years ago from North Carolina Author

Hi Molometer-thank you-I sure hope you have a chance to visit the bird sanctuary. It is really a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.

ishwaryaa22 3 years ago from Chennai, India

An elaborately written hub packed with detailed information, engaging videos and amazing photos. I have visited interesting bird sanctuaries in both my country and Singapore. No wonder that this well-written hub won the much deserved prize. Congrats! Way to go!

Thanks for SHARING. Useful, Awesome & Interesting. Voted up

Denise Handlon 3 years ago from North Carolina Author

Hi ishwaryaa22-thank you for your lovely feedback. This was an amazing place to visit. I can't wait to go back again. I appreciate your sharing this and your votes.

I've been traveling for the past two days so I missed seeing your comment when it posted. Have a wonderful weekend. :)

billybuc 3 years ago from Olympia, WA

Oh I would love this place....and Bev would never want to leave. :) Thanks for the lovely tour and education. I have never been to North Carolina, but maybe someday, yes? :)

Denise Handlon 3 years ago from North Carolina Author

Yes, Bill add it to your list of places to visit, there are so many things to see. It's quite a beautiful state and includes mountains, flat lands, and coast. Besides, it also includes this gorgeous bird sanctuary. :)

Thanks for stopping by, glad you enjoyed it.

Peggy W 3 years ago from Houston, Texas

Hi Denise,

It was wonderful learning about this wildlife bird sanctuary in North Carolina. Would love to see it in person someday. With all of the videos and the information your provided it is the next best thing to being there. Up, useful, and interesting votes. Thanks!

Denise Handlon 3 years ago from North Carolina Author

Hi Peggy-I hope you do get to visit this beautiful bird sanctuary in your travels. Thanks for visiting and the votes! :)

DeborahNeyens 3 years ago from Iowa

Sounds like a wonderful place to visit. And how cool to see a big hawk like that up close! The videos are a great addition to the hub. I love hearing the sounds of the birds in the background. Great job.

Denise Handlon 3 years ago from North Carolina Author

Hi Deb, Thanks for your feedback. It is a wonderful place, very peaceful and enjoyable.

alocsin 3 years ago from Orange County, CA

How great that you have this resource. I particularly like the video, which enables to see the facility through your eyes. Voting this Up and Interesting.

Denise Handlon 3 years ago from North Carolina Author

Hi alocsin, Thanks for stopping by. This was such a pleasurable way to spend a sunny afternoon! We all had a good time. Thanks for the Votes. :)

Stephanie Henkel 3 years ago from USA

We visited Sylvan Heights Bird Park earlier this week. It was great! Thanks for recommending it. :) Shared on FB.

Denise Handlon 3 years ago from North Carolina Author

Hi Stephanie-I'm thrilled that you visited the SH Bird Sanctuary. I hope you had a chance to see Scooby Doo, too! Hope to see you soon, now that the weather has turned brighter. Is your granddaughter graduating this June? J graduates June 8th. :) Hurrah!

Vellur 2 years ago from Dubai

This bird sanctuary is great. would love to visit some day. It is great that they look after the birds and keep the cages clean. Your hub is interesting, informative and educational. Voted up.

Denise Handlon 2 years ago from North Carolina Author

Hello Vellur, Thank you for reading and commenting. It is something I am looking forward to doing again this summer. They do a fabulous job, that's for sure! Thanks for the votes.

Perspycacious 24 months ago from Today's America and The World Beyond

I have a son moving to Raleigh. How far away is this park? Any favorite places to visit in Raleigh itself?

Denise Handlon 22 months ago from North Carolina Author

Hello Perspycacious, and my apologies for the delay in my response.

If your son Googles the Sylvan Heights Bird Sanctuary, he will be able to get the driving directions. It will probably be no more than an hour, or slightly over, depending on what 'side' of Raleigh he is moving to. Raleigh is a very large city, and with the neighboring Durham, it expands even more.

As for other things to do - there are so many delightful things to explore, depending on his interests. I wrote hubs about several of them. There are two major museums right across from each other: Art and Natural History. There are historical events, as well as the Children's Hands on museum. Movies, Theater performances, Dance, Dining...you name it and I'm sure he will find it in Raleigh, or very near by.

I recently met people in Durham and we car pooled to the west side of the state in the mountains. If he likes outdoor activities that will be one of the places he will want to explore.

I'm sure he has moved by now, P., and if so, has found some of the points of interest. Please encourage him to take the family to see the Bird Sanctuary at least once...it is truly a gem!

Hope to hear from you for an update about his move. BTW, if he is interested in any particular group of people that hang out, there are all sorts of clubs on Meetup.com It is very safe, (I just joined) and very social. You 'join' which ever group shares your interests. I'm in a Writers group through Meetup and we meet once a week to knock around ideas and work together.